goshawk Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun large hawk of Eurasia and North America used in falconry
    Accipiter gentilis.

WordNet

Gos"hawk` noun
Etymology
AS. gshafuc, lit., goosehawk; or Icel. gashaukr. See Goose, and Hawk the bird.
Definitions
  1. (Zoöl.) Any large hawk of the genus Astur, of which many species and varieties are known. The European (Astur palumbarius) and the American (A. atricapillus) are the best known species. They are noted for their powerful flight, activity, and courage. The Australian goshawk (A. Novæ-Hollandiæ) is pure white.

Webster 1913